About Blue Mountain Community College

History

Blue Mountain Community College (BMCC) was established on July 1, 1962, following an overwhelming five-to-one vote of confidence by the residents of Umatilla and Morrow counties. The College officially opened its doors in September of that same year. Vocational-technical courses were initially offered at Pendleton’s John Murray Junior High School, with college transfer programs added the following year. In 1965, BMCC relocated to its current site on the north hill overlooking Pendleton. Within a decade, the College completed the original construction plans for the campus.

In response to growing student demand, BMCC expanded its reach across the region. In September 1992, the College purchased Columbia Hall in Hermiston, and in October 1993, opened a center in Milton-Freewater. The following year, the Continuing Education Office and Basic Skills Center in Milton-Freewater were consolidated into the same location.

In November 1998, voters in Umatilla and Morrow counties approved a bond measure to fund facility expansions in key growth areas. This led to enhancements at the Hermiston and Milton-Freewater centers, the opening of the Morrow County Center in Boardman, and major upgrades to the Pendleton campus, including new technical agriculture buildings and a state-of-the-art science and technology building.

The BMCC district expanded again in March 2000 when Baker County was annexed. Classes began there in fall 2000. Further expansion came in September 2011 with the opening of the Eastern Oregon Higher Education Center in Hermiston. Supported by $7.4 million in state lottery-backed bonds, along with federal and private funding, this facility increased access to postsecondary education for residents in west Umatilla, north Morrow, and east Gilliam counties. Today, the center serves nearly 2,000 students in more than 100 course sections.

BMCC celebrated its 50th anniversary in October 2012. In May 2015, voters again demonstrated their commitment to education by approving a $23 million capital construction bond. These funds enabled upgrades to infrastructure, technology, and safety systems on the Pendleton campus and supported the construction of several new facilities. In April 2017, the Workforce Training Center opened in Boardman, replacing the old center and supporting programs in Data Center Technology, Industrial Systems Technology, Early Childhood Education, and general and community education.

In June 2017, BMCC opened the Precision Irrigated Agriculture Facility at the OSU Hermiston Agricultural Research & Education Center, expanding its Precision Irrigated Agriculture program and strengthening collaboration with Oregon State University. In September 2017, the College launched the Facility for Agricultural Resource Management (FARM) on the Pendleton campus, expanding nationally recognized agriculture and animal science programs. That same summer, the Milton-Freewater Center was also renovated.

In October 2022, BMCC marked its 60th anniversary, celebrating six decades of community partnership, student success, and educational innovation.

Most recently, in April 2025, BMCC celebrated the grand opening of the Blue Mountain Equine Center in Pendleton. As the College’s newest facility, the Equine Center represents BMCC’s continued investment in regional workforce development and hands-on learning. The Center supports the College’s growing equine science and rodeo programs, provides specialized space for livestock handling and care, and offers opportunities for community engagement through events and partnerships. The grand opening featured a ceremonial ribbon-cutting and a grand entry on horseback by BMCC’s rodeo athletes, marking a bold step forward in BMCC’s commitment to high-quality agricultural education.

Living in Eastern Oregon

Eastern Oregon isn’t just a place to study-it’s a place to live fully. The communities served by Blue Mountain Community College offer a rich blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventure that’s hard to find anywhere else. Each town and city carries its own character, with annual events and scenic surroundings that reflect the pioneering spirit of the region.

One of the area’s most iconic events is the world-renowned Pendleton Round-Up, held every September. This legendary celebration of Western heritage draws visitors from across the country for thrilling rodeo competitions, parades, Native American pageants, and community festivities. Beyond Pendleton, you’ll find authentic small-town celebrations like Hermiston’s FunFest, Baker City’s Miners’ Jubilee, and Umatilla Landing Days, all showcasing local food, crafts, and the deep-rooted pride of their communities.

From spring to fall, farmers’ markets are a vibrant part of life across the region. These weekly gatherings are more than just a place to buy produce-they’re social hubs filled with music, handmade goods, and the welcoming faces of friends and neighbors.

Framed by the Blue Mountains, the Columbia River, and expansive farmland, Eastern Oregon is a dream for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re into skiing, snowboarding, whitewater rafting, fishing, hiking, or hunting, you’ll find year-round opportunities just outside your door. With over one million acres of public lands, the Umatilla National Forest offers endless adventures. For a more leisurely pace, the area is home to scenic golf courses, bike routes, and strong local recreation programs that offer everything from youth sports to adult leagues.

The climate here makes it easy to enjoy all four seasons. Summers are warm and sunny, often reaching into the 80s and 90s, while winters are crisp with snow never far away-perfect for skiing or cozy nights by the fire. With low humidity and just 13 inches of annual rainfall, Eastern Oregon’s dry, sunny weather is ideal for both play and peace of mind.

Pendleton, home to BMCC’s main campus, is within a few hours’ drive of major cities like Boise, Idaho (223 miles), Portland, Oregon (210 miles), and Spokane, Washington (206 miles). For travel convenience, Pendleton’s regional airport offers daily commuter flights to Portland, and nearby airports in Walla Walla and Pasco, Washington, make it easy to stay connected without losing the small-town pace of life.

Mission, Vision, & Guiding Principles

• Vision: We endeavor to cultivate a diverse, united community of big dreams, bold innovations, and enduring connections.

• Mission: We strive to empower our communities, promote excellence in education, energize our local workforce and uplift families.

• Guiding Principles: In support of our vision and mission, at Blue Mountain Community College:

  • We believe in access. Proudly committed to the philosophy of equal opportunity, honoring our mission to strengthen families and transform communities.

  • We’re guided by integrity. Driven by our core principles of reliability, transparency, and stewardship. 

  • We stand for student success. Keenly focus on providing pathways to life-changing higher education outcomes, in the workforce and the world.

  • We are responsive, resourceful, and respectful. Powered by the essential diversity of our unique community, we face the future prepared to adapt to the evolving needs of those we serve.

Strategic Plan & Goals 2025-2028

The Blue Mountain Community College Board of Education reviews the 2025 - 2028 strategic plan on an annual basis and will accomplish the goals listed below. These goals were refreshed in 2025.

1. Culture of Students First. Remove barriers that hinder student success.
   1. Promote Student Self-Reliance.
   2. Improve the Student Experience.
2. Grow Enrollment. Develop relevant and accessible academic programs.
   1. Work in partnership with industry, businesses, and K-12 to identify demand for stackable credentials.
   2. Proved clear and transparent pathways that support student enrollment and completion.
3. Community Engagement. Expand and enhance community engagement.
   1. Increase a unified College image through marketing and media to create regional visibility.
   2. Foster a culture that supports community volunteerism among employees and students.
4. Vibrant Workplace Culture. Provide an environment for cultural change in the workplace.
   1. Develop career opportunities and pathways for professional growth.
   2. Increase employee collaboration and engagement.
5. Fiscal Sustainability. Ensure the institution progresses from fiscal solvency toward fiscal sustainability and viability.
   1. Diversify revenue streams, including non-tuition sources.
   2. Align budget with strategic priorities.

Core Competencies

Blue Mountain Community College recognizes that to be successful, students need to develop competencies valued by the institution and the community in addition to program-specific outcomes. These Institutional Learning Outcomes (ILOs) include the knowledge, skills, abilities and attitudes that all students are expected to develop during their time at BMCC.

BMCC’s Institutional Learning Outcomes include:

• Written and Oral Communication
• Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
• Community, Cultural, and Diversity Awareness
• Information and Technology Literacy
• Workplace, Wellness, and Ethical Responsibility

Campus and Locations

Blue Mountain Community College (BMCC) serves a diverse and expansive region of northeastern Oregon through its main campus, multiple centers, and outreach locations. This network ensures that students across the district have convenient access to educational resources and support services.

Main Campus - Pendleton

Located on a scenic 100-acre site atop Pendleton’s north hill, the main campus offers a comprehensive range of academic programs, student services, and facilities. In April 2025, BMCC celebrated the grand opening of the Blue Mountain Equine Center, enhancing hands-on learning opportunities in equine science and rodeo programs.

Address:

2411 NW Carden Avenue
Pendleton, OR 97801
Phone: (541) 276-1260
Email: getinfo@bluecc.edu

BMCC CENTERS:

BMCC BAKER COUNTY

Serving the Baker City community and surrounding areas since 2000, this center offers the full Associate of Arts Oregon Transfer (AAOT) degree, along with flexible class options and access to the Small Business Development Center.

3370 10th Street, Suite H
Baker City, OR 97814
Phone: 541-523-9127
Fax: 541-523-9128
Email: bmccbaker@bluecc.edu

BMCC HERMISTON (Eastern Oregon Higher Education Center)

Serving the western region of the college district, this center offers a full range of college services, including basic skills programs and transfer degrees. BMCC Hermiston partners with Eastern Oregon University and WSU Tri-Cities to provide seamless transfer opportunities.

975 S.E. Columbia Drive
Hermiston, OR 97838
Phone: 541-567-1800
Fax: 541-289-2876
Email: bmcchermiston@bluecc.edu

BMCC PRECISION AGRICULTURE 
This specialized facility supports the Precision Irrigated Agriculture program, offering state-of-the-art resources for students pursuing careers in modern agriculture.

2121 S. First St.
Hermiston, OR 97838
Phone: 541-289-2873
Email: aleggett@bluecc.edu

BMCC MILTON-FREEWATER
Located approximately 30 miles north of Pendleton, this center provides college and community education classes, student support services, and access to resources. Students from neighboring states benefit from in-state tuition rates.

311 N. Columbia
Milton-Freewater, OR 97862
Phone: 541-938-7176
Fax: 541-938-3763
Email: bmccmiltonfreewater@bluecc.edu

BMCC WORKFORCE TRAINING CENTER (Morrow County)
Opened in April 2017, this facility offers programs in Data Center Technician, Industrial Systems Technology, Early Childhood Education, and more, supporting workforce development in the region.

P.O. Box 939 / 251 Olson Rd
Boardman, OR 97818
Phone: 541-481-2099
Email: BMCCMorrowCounty@bluecc.edu

BMCC CONTRACTED OUT OF DISTRICT LOCATION (COD)

BMCC GRANT COUNTY
Providing educational opportunities in Grant County, this location offers placement assessments, academic advising, and access to BMCC courses.

835-B S. Canyon Blvd.
John Day, OR 97845
Phone: 541-575-1550
Fax: 541-575-2920
Email: getinfo@bluecc.edu

BMCC UNION COUNTY
Serving students in Union County, this location offers support services and access to BMCC’s educational programs.

708 K Ave, #49
La Grande, OR 97850
Phone: 541-215-0305
Email: getinfo@bluecc.edu

Accreditation

Regional Accreditation

Blue Mountain Community College is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Accreditation of an institution of higher education by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities indicates that it meets or exceeds the criteria for the assessment of institutional quality evaluated through a peer review process. An accredited college or university is one that has available the necessary resources to achieve its stated purposes through appropriate educational programs, is substantially doing so, and gives reasonable evidence that it will continue to do so in the foreseeable future. Institutional integrity is also addressed through accreditation.

Accreditation by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities is not partial but applies to the institution as a whole. As such, it is not a guarantee of every course or program offered or the competence of individual graduates. Rather, it provides reasonable assurance about the quality of opportunities available to students who attend the institution.

Programs at the college are approved by the Oregon Department of Education to offer education and training under the public laws pertaining to financial assistance to veterans.

Inquiries regarding an institution’s accredited status by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities should be directed to the administrative staff of the institution. Individuals may also contact:

Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities 

8060 165th Avenue N.E., Suite 100, Redmond, WA 98052 

(425) 558-4224 | www.nwccu.org

Other Accreditation

In addition to NWCCU accreditation, the A.A.S. Nursing program has been approved by the Oregon State Board of Nursing, and the Emergency Medical Technician program has been accredited by the Oregon Higher Education Coordinating Commission.

Equity and Non-Discrimination Policies

Public Notification of Non-Discrimination in Educational Programs

It is the policy of the Blue Mountain Community College Board of Education that there will be no discrimination or harassment on the grounds of race, color, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, or disability in any educational programs, activities, or employment.  Persons having questions about equal opportunity and nondiscrimination should contact the BMCC Title IX Coordinators, Room 13 Morrow Hall, Blue Mountain Community College, 2411 NW Carden, Pendleton OR  97801, Phone: 541-278-5947.  Email: HR@bluecc.edu.  For hearing impaired assistance please call Oregon Relay at 7-1-1.

Photo/Video Release Policy

At Blue Mountain Community College (BMCC), we regularly capture and share moments that reflect the energy and spirit of our campus community. Photographs, video and audio recordings, and names of students, employees, and guests may be used in a variety of BMCC materials-including publications, social media, websites, promotional campaigns, and public relations content.

BMCC does not require release forms for the use of images or recordings taken in public campus spaces. This applies to all individuals-students, employees, and guests.

If you prefer not to be photographed or recorded, or do not want your name, image, or voice used in BMCC-related media, you must notify the College Relations Office in writing.

Please note:

It is your responsibility to remove yourself from areas where photography or recording is taking place or to inform the camera operator of your preference not to be included.

If you remain in a public area where filming or photography is occurring, it will be assumed that you have granted permission for your image or likeness to be used.
 

Non-Credit Workforce Development and Community Education Programs

Continuing and Community Education

Continuing Education is for everyone!  Learn valuable professional development skills or pursue your personal interests or passions.  Our noncredit courses are affordable and we provide a variety of options.  Financial aid does not apply and coursework cannot be applied to programs of study that require academic credits.  Continuing Education courses are available entirely online or you can enroll in a campus-based class or at one of our Centers or contracts out of district in Grant and Union counties.  Continuing and Community also includes the following program areas: adult basic education (ABE), general educational development (GED) preparation, English language acquisition (ELA), and the JOBS program.  For more information about any of these programs, call 541-278-5152 or visit us on the Web at www.bluecc.edu. Learn more by visiting https://bluecc.edu/continuing-education.

Small Business Development Center (SBDC)

BMCC’s SBDC is part of America’s SBDC network that includes 20 centers in Oregon and nearly 1,000 centers across the country. Our SBDC is funded by the US Small Business Administration (SBA), the Oregon Business Development Department, BMCC, and local public and private supporters.

Our premier service is free, confidential, one-on-one business advising by experienced business owners. In addition, training and resources are available to assist small business owners in every aspect of business development and management - many are offered online as workshops, webinars, or complete courses.

The services of the BMCC Small Business Development Center are available year-round to new or experienced business owners in Baker, Umatilla, and Wallowa counties. Clients range from students planning their first business to owners and managers of companies with hundreds of employees.  Visit BMCC’s SBDC home for an overview of programs or register for our services.

College and Career Preparation

The College and Career Prep Department includes the following program areas: adult basic education (ABE), general educational development (GED) preparation, English language acquisition (ELA), and the JOBS program.  College and Career Prep programs are available either in person or remotely at all BMCC locations.  For more information about any of these programs call 541-276-1260 or visit us on the Web at https://bluecc.edu/pathways-programs/college-career-readiness/. 

Adult Basic Education (ABE)

Adult Basic Education classes provide instruction for adult learners in the foundational skills of reading, writing, and math to help them transition into the labor market, higher academics, or workforce training. ABE classes are available to students who have GED credentials or a high school diploma but have been away from academics for an extended time. ABE programming is available at BMCC in Pendleton, Hermiston, Baker City, Milton-Freewater, and Boardman.

General Educational Development (GED)

General Educational Development classes are offered for students who want to obtain a GED credential, which is a recognized high school diploma equivalent. Students earn the GED when they receive passing scores on the battery of four exams: Reasoning through Language Arts, Mathematical Reasoning, Social Studies, and Science. At BMCC, students can earn college credit while studying for GED certification; the student preparation schedule includes basic math, writing, and reading courses that are tied to college credit. GED programming is available at BMCC in Pendleton, Hermiston, Baker City, Milton-Freewater, Boardman, and our contracts out of district in Grant and Union counties.

GED.com is a study site offered as an alternative to students who want to study at their own pace. The site is designed to increase technology skills and help students study for the GED exams.

Students who earn a GED through BMCC’s GED program may participate in the BMCC commencement exercises held in June.  

Information on the GED test can be accessed at www.ged.com.  

A high school release is required for students 16 and 17 years old. Information on testing and school release may be obtained from the BMCC Testing Center in Pendleton at 541-278-5929. 

English Language Acquisition (ELA)

English Language Acquisition instruction is offered to all levels of non-English speaking students who wish to improve their ability to read, write, listen, and speak in English. ELA programming is available through BMCC in Pendleton and Hermiston; however, distance learning connections can be arranged.  College and Career Prep Department offices are located in Pendleton, on the upper level of Morrow Hall in M-200, and in Hermiston at EOHEC.